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Dental Implants

Serving Greater Southern Maine and the New Hampshire Seacoast.

Whether injury or decay is to blame for a tooth extraction, teeth that are missing deserve proper dental attention. When we see clients who have missing teeth, we do not just see an incomplete smile; our dentists see a potential dental health problem.

The Dangers Posed by Missing Teeth

If you think about your teeth as tools with designated functions, it is easier to see how missing teeth may be detrimental to the comprehensive strength and functionality of your smile. Each tooth has a purpose, and the teeth work together to carry out the jobs of chewing and speaking. When one or more teeth are missing, the surrounding teeth — as well as the gums — are affected.

Since each tooth is placed in a designated position, a missing tooth can cause nearby teeth to shift out of place. Voids where teeth are missing can accumulate food and harbor bacteria. Without the support of a tooth, gums tend to retract, which can endanger neighboring teeth.  Misplaced teeth can cause all sorts of problems, from leaving enamel prone to decay to causing neuromuscular problems due to an imbalanced bite. Sometimes an imbalanced bite can negatively affect the shape of your face.

Dental Implants as a Solution

Dental implants can be used to replace one missing tooth or many. Once they are in place, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. It is our team’s goal to duplicate the natural appearance and function of your original tooth or teeth. These tooth replacements are implanted into the jaw bone, so they are strong, stable, and permanent. Our Kennebunk Center for Dentistry implant clients have reported a high degree of satisfaction with their implants.

About the Dental Implant Process

Basically, a dental implant is comprised of an artificial tooth root, an abutment that connects the root and tooth, and a false tooth or bridge. Because it is compatible with bone and oral tissue, a titanium post is used as the tooth root. The dental implant is inserted into the jaw bone during a dental procedure. Once the bone is allowed to grow around the new implant, the false tooth or dental bridge is anchored to the root via the abutment.

Dental implants are a wonderful investment in your overall health. Plus, they can improve your self-confidence and help you take pride in your smile. Remember that brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings are important in the longevity of your dental implant. And if you have an old implant that looks worn or is giving your trouble, several of our dentists are trained in precise implant restoration.